The Outboard Motor Jacking Plate 8 (JP8Z) from Absolute Marine is the original Z-Lock Jack Plate you’ve trusted for strength, stability, and precise engine height adjustment. Designed for performance-minded boaters with V4 and V6 outboards, this 8" setback jack plate lets you fine-tune height and angle to unlock faster hole shots, better planing, and improved water handling across conditions. Note: this item is currently on backorder with an estimated 90 days to ship, so you can plan your upgrade with confidence once it’s available.

• Z-Lock design for maximum strength and no side slippage: The patented Z-Lock system uses matched slotted extrusions to lock the side plates in place, delivering rock-solid stability even under aggressive trim and high-speed runs.
• All‑weather, aircraft-grade aluminum construction: Full 1/2" material provides the rigidity and durability needed for long-term reliability on demanding watercraft.
• 8" setback with 5" of vertical adjustment: Move the engine up or down from the top of the jack plate for precise height control, helping you optimize performance in a range of water and load conditions.
• Top‑side adjustment from the jack plate itself: Adjust height conveniently from above the plate, simplifying fine-tuning without disassembling components.
• Wide compatibility for V4 and V6 outboards up to 300hp: Designed to handle all V4, V6 non‑V8 engines and dual steering setups, with tilt angles up to 90 degrees for versatile operation.
• Pre-drilled bolt patterns for broad compatibility: The plate is pre-drilled to fit the majority of outboard mounting patterns, making installation more straightforward on a wide range of boats.
• Special install steps for older Mercury models: Mercury 1976–1979 may require specific installation steps to ensure correct alignment and secure mounting.
• Transom and mounting geometry: Short side mounts to the transom while the engine mounts to the long side of the jack plate, providing a balanced, stable platform for the outboard.
• 1‑year limited warranty: Absolute Marine backs the JP8Z with a one-year warranty to the first retail purchaser against defects in material and workmanship.
• Backorder notice: As of now, the 8" jack plate is on backorder with an estimated 90 days to ship, giving you a clear timeline for availability.

Installation and maintenance at a glance

For a solid, safe install and reliable long‑term performance, follow these practical steps and maintenance tips:

• Initial installation: After the engine is in place, tighten all hardware securely to specification.
• Height adjustment procedure: To raise or lower the plate, loosen the three lock nuts on the inside of the plate (six total), and loosen the three outside bolts. Turn the top center adjustment bolt clockwise to raise the plate to the desired height. Use a box end wrench, open‑end wrench, or socket—do not use air tools. After setting, tighten all side locking bolts securely (80 ft‑lbs recommended).
• Center adjustment cautions: Do not loosen or adjust the four center bolts—the center adjustment screws move together and are only for height changes.
• Ongoing maintenance: Tighten all side bolts to a minimum of 80 ft‑lbs after the initial 3 hours of use and then after every 10 hours of engine use. Recheck after every 300 miles of trailering. Visually inspect bolts before each engine use to ensure none are loose or missing.
• Warranty considerations: Maintain installation integrity and torque specifications to ensure warranty coverage remains valid for the original purchaser.

Whether you’re chasing faster planing, cleaner holeshots, or more confident handling in choppier water, the Outboard Motor Jacking Plate 8 from Absolute Marine delivers the trusted performance of the Z-Lock design—the original solution for secure, precise engine height adjustment. Built for durability, engineered for reliability, and backed by a clear maintenance routine, it’s a strategic upgrade for serious boaters who demand consistent, repeatable setup across varying conditions.